Scorched Plague

Mutations & FEV · Source: Fallout 76 in-game lore and terminal entries

Overview

The Scorched Plague is a devastating infection that transforms humans into the Scorched, mind-controlled husks serving the Scorchbeasts of Appalachia. It is the defining catastrophe of post-war West Virginia. The plague wiped out most of the region's survivors.

Origin & Mechanism

The plague is spread by the Scorchbeasts, mutated creatures that emerged in Appalachia and whose cries and spores transmit the infection. The Scorchbeasts themselves arose from pre-war mutation, possibly influenced by the region's experiments and radiation. Once infected, humans become puppets of a hive-like will tied to the Scorchbeasts.

Effects & Symptoms

The infected develop blackened veins and skin, and their minds are overwritten, driving them to spread the plague and serve the Scorchbeasts. Scorched retain some skills, wielding weapons and inhabiting settlements. They act in eerie coordination, making them a region-wide threat.

Wasteland Significance

The Scorched Plague ended the hopes of Appalachia's survivors, including the Responders and the Brotherhood of Steel. The fight against the Scorchbeasts and the plague became the core of Fallout 76's early story. Understanding the plague's origin was key to any future for the region.

Notable Appearances

The Scorched Plague appears throughout Fallout 76, including the Scorchbeasts and the Enclave's research. The plague's story continues through seasonal events and later expeditions into the region.

Tags: scorched, scorchbeasts, plague, appalachia, fallout-76, infection, hive-mind, mutants, disease, west-virginia